Female chemists were few and far between in eighteenth century England, but Stamford was home to one in Red Lion Square, albeit with the support of her brother. Historically, it was normal for widows of apothecaries, pharmacists or chemists to inherit their late husband’s profession without being formally qualified. Once formal qualifications were instituted, this was no longer possible.
'MARGARET WOODROFFE, Widow and Successor to the late Mr. Solomon Woodroffe, of Stamford, (DRUGGIST, CHYMIST, and COLOURMAN,)
THINKS it incumbent upon her to thankfully acknowledge the many Favours conferred upon her by her Friends; and begs Leave to inform them and the Public, that she continues the Partnership in the above Branches with her Brother CHRISTOPHER COCKS, (who was formerly Apprentice to Mr. Woodroffe) and that from the Encouragement they have already met with, has laid in a FRESH STOCK of GOODS against the Fair, and hope to merit a Continuance of the Favours of their Friends, which will be ever gratefully acknowledged, by
Their obliged humble servants, MARGARET WOODROFFE. CHRISTOPHER COCKS.
N. B. M. Woodroffe has two small and very convenient Houses to let, situate next Door to her own in Red-Lion-Square, or any Part of the Houses for Shops during the Fair.’
Stamford Mercury, 28th February, 1771.
- Chemists /Apothecaries sold a variety of goods, including household goods and paints.